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Compiled by Zakiyah Ebrahim
The |
Health24
May 14, 2020, 11:45
In general, it is accepted that avoiding exposure to the deadly Covid-19 virus, officially called SARS-CoV-2, is achieved through physical distance and also basic hygiene, which implies frequent and thorough hand washing, and avoiding contact with surfaces that are touched by many people, such as door knobs and elevator buttons.
However, with the constant appearance of new studies, we are learning other ways in which the virus can be transmitted, particularly through aerosols (small breathable particles that can remain in the air and travel short and long distances).
A recent study, conducted by four researchers and published in Risk analysis, provides evidence of transmission of the virus by aerosol. This was done by studying how normal breathing and talking about asymptomatic individuals produce tiny droplets that can travel through the air.
What the study says
Physical distancing measures around the world, including the implementation of locks, as well as the mandatory use of face masks, have been driven by the fact that SARS-CoV-2 spreads through two main pathways: cough and sneezes from infected people, and by hand-Face-to-face transport from surfaces.
Although not everything is known about the aerosol transmission of the new coronavirus in the air, the researchers explain that the difference between small and large drops in the transmission of infectious diseases (originally observed in the 1930s) is reflected in the current Organization. World Health (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guide (CDC) as well as additional publications.
A EurekAlert press release also notes that an April letter from the National Academy of Sciences Committee on Emerging Infectious Diseases and 21st Century Health Threats concluded that, despite limited research on SARS-CoV-2 specifically, ” the results of the available studies are consistent with aerosolization of the virus by normal respiration. “
The researchers in this study, therefore, aim to draw more attention to aerosol inhalation. They describe reports of asymptomatic (symptom-free) individuals infecting others with Covid-19 showing that normal breathing and conversation can end up producing tiny droplets, which can then be transported. And since the drops are really small, they have the ability to stay in the air for long periods of time, which is what allows them to travel long distances.
Eurekalert also reports that a recent laboratory study found that the virus can remain viable and infectious in aerosols for hours and on surfaces for days. Similarly, a HealthDay article, published in April, reports studies that found that people infected with the virus could spread aerosolized viral particles by coughing, breathing, or talking within a 13-foot (4m) radius. Other interesting studies, reported by Health24, reveal how the virus can remain in plastic for 72 hours and in cardboard for 24 hours. Another more recent study published by Health24 found that the chances of aerosol transmission infection increase in areas with poor ventilation.
What the authors suggest
The authors offer certain recommendations to address the transport of the virus by aerosol, including the collection of more data exploring the concentration, the duration of survival and the transport distances of the virus in its aerosol form. They recommend that scientists do this during a variety of temperatures and humidity levels.
Another suggestion they make is to explore appropriate ways to curb inhalation exposure to small aerosols, specifically within buildings and rooms where aerosols are likely to travel and settle.
